Our panel of 100 influential leaders discusses the most important issues affecting you.

Thomas Wenski, archbishop, Archdiocese of Miami

Last week: More and more, the price of admission to public life is to check one’s faith-based values at the door. While Catholics who dissent from Church teachings are given a “pass,” those who aspire to be both public servants and faithful Catholics are increasingly marginalized. Recently, two senators (Hirono, D-Hi and Harris, D-CA), on the Judiciary Committee challenged a nominee to the federal bench because he belongs to the “Knights of Columbus.” Fortunately, Sen. Benn Sasse, R-NE, pushed back against this blatant anti-Catholic bias in having the entire Senate vote reaffirming the Constitution’s prohibition on any “religious test” for public office.

Looking ahead:St. Augustine pointed out as he watched the Roman Empire collapse: we are citizens of both the City of God and the City of Man. But, any city built by fallen men will inevitably reflect man’s fallen nature. Two-hundred years ago, slavery was written into the Constitution and of course, women could not vote. More recently, the right to abortion has been read into our Constitution by our Supreme Court justices. Nevertheless, our Founding Fathers got it right in setting up a limited government – with checks and balances -- in order to provide ordered freedom for its citizens.

Eleanor Sobel, former member, Florida Senate

Last week: After a Hallandale Commissioner fumed about a Palestinian-American Congresswoman, we heard endless discourse but saw minimal action to repair previously existing strains between the Jewish and Muslim communities of South Florida. It’s vital to remember these two groups make up the most targeted/hated religious groups in the country, with Islam coming in a close second behind Judaism. A simple way to improve relations is intermingling; from Synagogues with Imams to Mosques with Rabbis, plenty of opportunities present for the two religions to coexist. It’s time to ensure that all of our neighbors are enjoying a life of religious freedom.

Last week: Another State of the Union speech, another jumble of conflicts between words and action. Trump stated that we must "reject the politics of revenge."I agree, but earlier in the day Trump tweeted attacks on Senator Schumer,the media and others.The President also spoke of infrastructure and lowering drug prices.That was the in last years speech, yet no proposals were ever submitted. Finally, Trump stated he personally prevented nuclear war with North Korea. I would like to believe all these declarations, but he has always had an unusual relationship with the truth.Can't wait for SNL.

Last week: In 2017, Florida was one of six states that declared opioid abuse a public health emergency. The 2018 law required all medical professionals to take an education course on opioids registered with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. This year, thousands of Florida physicians, dentists, nurse practitioners and other health care professionals failed to take the mandatory continuing education course on proper opioid prescribing, the risks of opioid addiction and nonpharmacological therapies. The Florida Department of Health is now sending non-compliance letters advising providers they have 15 days to take the required course or will face disciplinary action.

Looking ahead:Since 2016, premium increases have been approved in Florida for 30 long-term care insurance providers. Long-term care insurance helps pay for nursing home stays and extended care services during consumers’ elder years. These premiums have exponentially increased and Florida seniors are getting blindsided by this news. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida policyholders have been notified by mail that annual premiums for their coverage will increase on average of 94 percent through 2021. After the full premiums have been in effect, average annual premiums will increase from $1,454 to $2,820.

Dr. Eduardo J. Padrón, president, Miami Dade College

Last week: Last week, I announced my plans to step down as president of Miami Dade College in August after a quarter century as president. I want to express my deepest appreciation to the countless colleagues and students who have helped me and touched my soul during my amazing journey at the college. It is humbling. Without them I would have accomplished nothing. There is still much work to do and I look forward to serving the college and especially our beloved South Florida in new capacities. Thank you.

Frank Ortis, mayor, Pembroke Pines

Last week: It’s a sad time for our precious Everglades. Overturning a decision by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, an appeals court ordered the state to issue a permit to a major Broward County landowner that wants to drill an exploratory oil well in the Everglades. If there is any doubt, any possibility that oil drilling can damage our Everglades and water supply, decisions should err on the side of caution. I’m incredibly disappointed with this outcome and hope that something can be done before such a project continues.

Looking ahead:Kudos to the Key West City Commission for taking a stand on protecting the only living coral reef in North America by banning sunscreens containing two particular chemicals. The ban, which goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2021, is against the ingredients oxybenzone and octinoxate. Researchers showed how the chemicals were harming the reef by DNA damage, bleaching and the death of corals. I had no idea that, according to the National Park Service, between 4,000 and 6,000 tons of sunscreen washes off into reef areas. Since sunscreens containing titanium oxide or zinc can be used, this is a no-brainer.

Bernie Fernandez Jr., M.D., CEO, Baptist Health Medical Group

Last week: We’re one month into 2019. How’s your New Year’s resolution progressing? If you’ve relied solely on will, you’ve likely resumed behaviors you wanted to change. Try these tips, backed by science, instead. 1. Set smaller achievable goals that add up to your overall goal. 2. Identify situations where you’ll return to undesirable behaviors and avoid these traps. 3. Practice mindfulness to rewire your brain so you enjoy new behaviors. 4. Write down your goals and report your weekly progress to an accountability partner. 5. Have a plan to react to setbacks. It’s not too late to get back on track.

Norm Kent, publisher, South Florida Gay News

Last week: Tom Brady's sixth Super Bowl win is proof that stardom and fortune comes not with one great year or a single spectacular catch, but what you achieve over the test of time, down by down, and year by year. Like Kipling, he has given the unforgiving minute 60 seconds worth of distance run.

Looking ahead:We will be talking about how many minutes and tweets away we are from Donald Trump despoiling what ever good he may have tried to do with his State of the Union speech, whether he will seek to be a commander, or colluder, in chief. I like the first question better.

Lamar Fisher, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: This past week the Midwest faced absurdly cold weather with roughly 224 million people enduring below-freezing conditions. While I prayed for everyone’s safety in the rest of the country, I couldn’t help but think how fortunate we are, here in South Florida. This is the perfect time of year for visitors to come to Broward County and enjoy all the wonderful things South Florida has to offer. From the ocean to the Everglades and everything in between, there are so many outdoor activities in our communities that makes Broward County the best place to visit.

Looking ahead:February is American Heart Month, a federally designated event, which is an ideal time to remind everyone to take care of your heart health. One in three adults in the United States has high blood cholesterol, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about 610,000 people die of heart disease in the United States every year, that’s one in every four deaths. You can help prevent heart disease by making healthy choices and managing any health conditions you may have.

Last week: A Tallahassee administrative court 's reversal of the Department of Environmental Protection's denial allowing exploratory drilling in the Everglades is extremely disappointing.The potential harmful effects of the proposed drilling, including degradation and contamination of the Biscayne Aquifer, damage to the Everglades' fragile ecosystem including water supply, plant, vegetation and wildlife, far outweigh the possibility and benefit of discovering oil in the Everglades. In partnership with the county and other organizations, Broward's cities strongly oppose any drilling in the Everglades. We will continue to engage our residents in our efforts to make sure state leaders do not allow drilling to happen.

Gary Resnick, commissioner, Wilton Manors

Last week: President Trump gave infrastructure a two-second mention in his SOTU address and everyone applauded. Cities have lobbied the White House and Congress for years for adequate funds for infrastructure. Building and repairing aging roads, bridges, water/sewer, broadband, lighting and other public systems should be a national priority, not a political sound bite. The U.S. spends billions on infrastructure around the world. Maybe the U.S. can invade our cities so we can get some of that funding.

Dr. Michael Dennis, chair, FAU Schmidt College of Medicine

Last week: What an awkward moment! After bashing each other for weeks with derogatory insults, House Speaker Pelosi and President Trump were only steps away from each other while the Nation heard the State of the Disunion Address as I’ve been calling it. The American people deserve better and should call for discussions to be characterized by honest efforts at compassionate understanding and compromise. There is hope. POTUS was somewhat conciliatory in his remarks, and Pelosi has indicated she would support a bipartisan agreement on border security – possibly as early as this week. With another government shutdown looming, these are welcome signs.

Looking ahead:Last year 35 million Americans didn’t fill their prescriptions for lack of funds. This shouldn’t be a problem in the wealthiest country in history, but we pay the highest prices anywhere. Instead of listening to the pharmaceutical industry’s 1,400 lobbyists, Congress and the administration should heed constituents who are demanding more affordable medications. Medicare should be allowed to negotiate with drug companies for better prices (currently forbidden). Canadian products are reliable and available. Pharmaceutical companies should be required to provide cost transparency and not be allowed to pay generic drug makers to stay off the market. Your health would benefit.

Sheldon Harr, founding rabbi emeritus, Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El

Last week: President Trump delivered his "State of the Union" this past week. While we may have our own understanding of his remarks, most citizens should have noted a glaring omission. Climate change was not even mentioned. There was not even a hint that this is an issue in America and is, in fact, a global issue. While we may differ about walls, climate change is an existential matter for persons of all political stripes. The bottom line: climate change in its essence deals with our short-term health and our long-term existence. At every world forum, this issue should be front and center.

Ina Lee, owner, Travelhost Elite of Greater Fort Lauderdale

Last week: More dire news emerged from scientists regarding the acceleration of the impact of global warming. A massive void that is six miles long and 1,000 feet deep representing 14 billion tons of ice was discovered under an Antarctic glacier. The ice sheet is melting much faster than was predicted and the sea level rise will impact coastal cities. We are quickly approaching a tipping point and clearly there is insufficient action being taken by our government. Locally, it is concerning that sea level rise was not a major priority when the Fort Lauderdale City Commission came up with its major priorities for the year.

Looking ahead:As we approach the one-year anniversary of the massacre at Stoneman Douglas High School, the staggering number of deaths that have shattered lives since then because of gun violence is unconscionable. Whether in mass shootings, all done by white males born in this country, or every day in our inner cities, we are failing as a nation. Gun control and mental health need to be our priority rather than thoughts and prayers when the next tragedy occurs. What will it take? If not now, when?

Robert Weinroth, member, Palm Beach County Commission

Last week: Memories of the 2018 election will long linger especially with the perfect storm of three required ballot recounts. The Palm Beach County Commission has committed itself to supporting the efforts of our new Supervisor of Elections, Wendy Sartory Link, as she prepares for the presidential election in 2020. To that end, commissioners made fast work of her funding request to upgrade voting equipment and software. Voter confidence in the process of tabulating votes and declaring the winning candidates is paramount to our democracy. It is our fervent hope that when the votes are counted, South Florida avoids the national spotlight.

Looking ahead:With the looming deadline of Feb. 15 fast approaching, the possibility of another federal government shutdown cannot be ignored. The pain inflicted on the government employees, (including the TSA and Coast Guard), their families, and those dependent on their business cannot be repeated while our members of Congress and our president resume their war of words. Even with the payment of lost government wages, the damage being done to family finances and the orderly operation of government departments will be felt long after the impasse has been settled. It is time for the adults to resolve this and move on.

Marty Kiar, property appraiser, Broward County

Last week: The First District Court of Appeal ordered the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to issue an oil drilling permit to a company that owns land in Broward’s Everglades. The company plans to drill to a depth of 11,800 feet to search for oil. The Everglades is an important natural resource. Drilling could destroy wildlife, threaten our water supply, and hinder the Everglades’ restoration. Fortunately, the Sun-Sentinel reported that the legal fight to protect the Everglades may continue as environmental groups, the City of Miramar and the Broward County Commission have all previously fought the project. Our natural resources must be protected.

Christine Hunschofsky, mayor, Parkland

Looking ahead:This coming week we will commemorate the one year mark of the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in which 17 people were killed, another 17 were physically injured and thousands were traumatized. So much has changed in our community since that day, yet we continue to work toward resilience and healing. We have a long way to go on our new path forward and are grateful to all who have shown us compassion and understanding. It is difficult for any community to navigate such a massive and extensive trauma and we appreciate your patience, acknowledgement and support.

Michael Ryan, mayor, Sunrise

Last week: Alarm bells are screaming loudly regarding the increase in e-cigarettes usage by adolescents. The American Lung Association called out the federal government for failing to protect children. Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable death and disease in the nation. ALA reports a scary 78 percent increase among high school students, where now 20.8 percent of high school students are currently using e-cigarettes. Many are calling teen use an epidemic and evolving health crisis because of the potential for addiction to nicotine and transition to cigarettes. A Florida county has implemented Tobacco 21, raising the minimum age of tobacco product sales.

Looking ahead:Seventeen Angels. Seventeen more injured. So many more in perpetual pain. February 14th marks one year. We were all just one degree of separation. Sunrise is offering staff the opportunity for moments of silence between 2:21 pm and 2:28 pm, when the gunman entered and exited the 1200 building leaving behind permanent and irreparable scars. As a community and as a nation, we continue to mourn the tragic loss of lives and injuries. We honor the actions and courage of those heroes who gave their lives trying to save others, as well as the first responders and rescue workers.

Kathleen Cannon, president, United Way of Broward County

Last week: Congratulations to the New England Patriots on winning Super Bowl LIII this past Sunday. Whether you were happy or disappointed with the results, there’s one thing most of us in South Florida can agree on: It’s going to be exciting to have Super Bowl LIV in our own backyard next year. As we count down the days until 2/2/2020, let’s all come together to get our community ready for the spotlight. And may the Miami Dolphins be one of the championship teams!

Tracey Grossman, chairperson, Anti-Defamation League

Looking ahead:While the extent to which the Parkland shooter’s extremist beliefs played a role in the horrific attack at MSD High School isn’t clear, the possibility of some degree of ideological influence remains. According to the Public Safety Commission report, he had an interest in Hitler, the KKK, and Nazis. He was known to use extremist phrases, had white supremacist images on his phone, and adorned some personal belongings – including the ammunition magazines he used – with swastikas. Education officials locally and nationally should increase funding for promoting inclusive school climates, anti-bias education, and hate crime prevention in schools.

Lois Frankel, member, U.S. House of Representatives

Last week: With a historic number of women in Congress, our nation is now represented in the House by a diverse group who want to work for the people by lowering prescription drug costs, bringing back financial security for middle-class families, rebuilding our infrastructure, and strengthening relationships with our allies. Democrats wore suffragette white to the State of the Union to signal that we’re going to advance policies that provide economic security for women and families, including access to affordable health care, higher wages, pay equity, paid family and medical leave, and quality child care.

Looking ahead:The new Democratic majority begins holding hearings on H.R. 1, the For the People Act. We’re going to improve campaign finance transparency, make it easier, not harder, for people to vote, and end the culture of corruption in Washington that has sadly become the norm. It is my hope that Republicans will join us to pass this legislation to strengthen our democracy and make it easier for Americans to have their voices heard at the ballot box.

Last week: The Las Olas Boulevard bridge that spans the Intracoastal Waterway is now functioning after a mechanical failure of the Atlantic Avenue bridge in Delray Beach last weekend forced FDOT to perform preemptive inspections of similarly designed bridges, including those on Commercial and Las Olas Boulevards where additional faulty bolts were discovered, requiring all three bridges to be locked down. With 11 bridges over the ICW and five over the New River in Broward County, it is imperative that we invest in the necessary infrastructure to safeguard the continued navigability of our waterways – which are the highways of the marine industry.

Last week: Wearing Blackface has been front and center in the news this past week. Let me break it down - this practice is part of a history of racial derision, repression, mistreatment and dehumanization of one race. Wearing blackface is not a harmless prank, youthful indiscretion or an act of ignorance; it is a reminder to many amongst us, of past and continuing efforts to excuse and justify violence against people of color. Wearing Blackface is not a neutral form of entertainment, but one that is damaging, derogatory and a mocking caricature depicting black people as inferior.

Dean Trantalis, mayor, Fort Lauderdale

Last week: Thanks to everyone who participated in the city commission’s discussion about electric scooters. After careful consideration, we agreed to keep the program, but asked staff for recommendations to better regulate items such as speed, operating boundaries, parking, and enforcement. Permitted operators were asked to increase efforts to educate and inform riders about proper rules and regulations. While more than 300,000 rides have been logged in only three months, it is crucial that riders and pedestrians be alert, attentive and look out for each other to avoid injuries and accidents and maintain a safe environment.

Looking ahead:Calling all neighbors! Join us on Thursday, Feb. 21 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at City Hall for Neighbor Support Night. The annual event is a great way for neighbors to meet elected officials and city staff, build community, elevate public spirit, and promote civic engagement in a fun block party atmosphere. Neighbor Support Night features an array of programs and activities including: a free tree giveaway, tours of City Hall, live demonstrations from our police and fire-rescue departments, a Kids Zone, plus games, contests, face painting, and free giveaways!

Lori Berman, member, Florida Senate

Last week: Last year Joshua Marshall, a nonverbal autistic man, eloped from his home in Port St. Lucie. Tragically, his body was found in a pond near his home shortly after he was last seen. This story is unfortunately not uncommon, and individuals with developmental disabilities elude the watchful eye of their caregivers each day. This week I filed legislation to create the At Risk Adult Alert Program, modeled after the Amber Alert, to assist in the identification and safe return of these individuals to their families. I am looking forward to working with my colleagues to pass this important bill.

Looking ahead:On Tuesday, the Senate Education Committee will hear a proposed change to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Act which will permit teachers to be armed. The Coach Aaron Feis Guardian Program, named in honor of one of the victims of the Parkland tragedy, should remain how it was originally created last year. Although it would be up to each local school board to decide to expand this program to allow teachers to carry, I feel strongly that classroom teachers should not be armed. Teachers have enough duties already and putting guns in the classroom is a potential recipe for disaster.

George Moraitis, chairman, Broward Republican Executive Committee

Last week: President Trump gave his State of the Union address last Tuesday. In it, he made one thing very clear: America will never become a socialist nation. His words: “We are alarmed by new calls to adopt socialism in our country. America was founded on liberty and independence - not government coercion, domination, and control. We are born free, and we will stay free!" Socialism’s failures abound; just look at the failed examples of the Soviet Union, Cuba, North Korea, and Venezuela. This contrasts with the blessings our nation has enjoyed as Americans earn and keep the fruits of their labor.

Michael Udine, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: In Northwest Broward’s backyard, the Everglades stands as a focal point of our community. Developers are putting this in jeopardy by drilling an oil well. We cannot allow this to happen! An oil well in the Everglades threatens one of our national treasures. The Everglades is a place where endangered species roam and is a part of the aquifer system that provides South Florida with drinking water. One leak and our water system and wildlife could be harmed for years. From the Sawgrass to the Seagrass, protecting the Everglades is paramount to the future of our community.

Irela Bagué, president, Bagué Group

Last week: The people of Venezuela have fought courageously to regain their independence from tyranny. The desecration of a country’s constitution and depriving people of fundamental human rights are issues all too familiar to my family who fled Cuba over 60 years ago and me. Venezuelans have earned the right to have the leadership they want and deserve, and we hope they soon get it.

Looking ahead:Biscayne Bay is in serious ecological decline, in recent years, the bay has suffered a seagrass die-off, coral reef disease, algal blooms, red tide and recurring sewage spills from Miami-Dade’s aging water infrastructure. The county commission lead by Commissioner Rebeca Sosa passed a resolution creating a Biscayne Bay Task Force to prioritize actions and create a long-term path for our Bay’s recovery. The time has come to truly focus on the health of Biscayne Bay and its importance to Miami-Dade’s and Florida’s economy.

Melissa McKinlay, member, Palm Beach County Commission

Last week: Palm Beach County became the first county in the State of Florida to offer its firefighters cancer presumption protection. Research has shown that long term exposure to certain contaminants firefighters encounter result in significantly increased risks of several different types of cancer. For several years, legislators, despite verbal support of firefighters, have failed to even schedule a hearing on cancer presumption legislation. Hopefully, this bold step by Palm Beach County will rally firefighters across the state to demand action. If not, hopefully other local governments will follow suit by not only talking the talk of supporting first responders, but also walking the walk. Especially when these heroes are staring death in the face.

Looking ahead:While it was a strong way to show unity, once again elected women have been thrown in the spotlight for what they chose to wear rather than the reason why as female Congressional Democrats wore white to support women’s issues. I will continue to remain optimistic that my daughters will be able to work in an environment that doesn’t comment about their outfits or their hair or their makeup or lack thereof. It is sexist. But, hey, at least this time some of the men got some comments, notably President Trump’s crooked tie. But, seriously, we are better than this. Focus on the content, not the cover. Please.

Nan Rich, member, Broward County Commission

Looking ahead:The newly overhauled Florida Supreme Court, now arguably the most conservative in the nation, recently refused to consider an appeal of a Miami Beach minimum-wage lawsuit that a former, more moderate majority of the court had agreed to hear. Florida’s abysmally low minimum wage of $8.46 an hour is already a far cry from the living wage that Floridians need and deserve. Instead of suppressing wages and encroaching on local governments, our Judiciary should protect the right of “Home Rule” where the government closest to the people is best fit to respond to their needs.

Tom Shea, president, Right Management

Last week: Finally, a shot at getting Florida back in the film and television production business. Bill S726 was filed this past Tuesday would allow Florida counties to use the existing 6 percent tax charged on short-term rentals, mostly hotels and motels, to “promote or incentivize film or television productions in the state”. It’s not all that is needed, but it is a step in the right direction. Big bucks are going to Georgia for “Stranger Things,” “The Walking Dead” and Marvel Cinematic Universe Films. Louisiana captured Channing Tatum’s X-Men “Gambit” and Tom Hanks' “Greyhound.” Bill S726 needs our support.

Barbara Sharief, member, Broward County Commission

Looking ahead:During the month of February, we celebrate Black History Month. It’s a time when we reflect and celebrate the contributions made by some of the most influential African American thinkers and inventors in American history. We also acknowledge the hardships and sacrifices that many of them endured to make life more efficient and functional for all Americans. Throughout the month, residents can attend free and paid celebratory events at several venues, including our Broward County Library. From film screenings to festivals, there are programs for all ages. Visit Broward.org/Library for additional events, discussions, and activities.

Last week: This week extreme cold temperatures were followed by spring time temperatures in the midwest - a weather anomaly. Recent weather beat all-time records in Australia with Melbourne sweltering in 120-degree heat. Taken together these extremes support the consensus of the scientific community that more greenhouse gases result in greater risk of abnormal temperatures and increasing frequency and intensity of extremes all year. With measured levels of CO2 higher than they’ve been in 800,000 years - with most of the rise occurring within the last 150 years - it’s natural that the last five years are the warmest or coldest on record.

Looking ahead:It takes the whole community - from the initial call to action and support from the Broward Business Council on Homelessness; Chief Judge Jack Tutor’s work on the newly launched homeless community court and the cooperation of municipal and county government agencies, to the comprehensive provision of shelter and case management coordinated through the United Way’s United We End Homelessness: We should feel proud! But in the weeks ahead remember we have a long way to go to provide our remaining 2,000 homeless neighbors the basic help they need.

Ted Deutch, member, U.S. House of Representatives

Last week: We owe our nation’s veterans, including Florida’s 1.5 million veterans, our deepest gratitude for their service to our country. When they return home, our government and communities must ensure we care for their needs. Unfortunately, financial predators seek out veterans with false promises to help with their VA benefits and claims while charging them excessive fees. These pension poachers particularly go after our community’s vulnerable senior veterans. While this reprehensible practice is illegal, an existing loophole allows fraudsters to escape prosecution. The House passed my bipartisan legislation to penalize these scammers for stealing hard-earned money from our veterans.

Looking ahead:Alyssa Alhadef. Scott Beigel. Martin Duque. Nicholas Dworet. Aaron Feis. Jaime Guttenberg. Christopher Hixon. Luke Hoyer. Cara Loughran. Gina Montalto. Joaquin Oliver. Alaina Petty. Meadow Pollack. Helena Ramsay. Alex Schachter. Carmen Schentrup. Peter Wang. Our community and the nation will never forget the tragedy on Feb.14, 2018 and the 17 lives taken from us too soon. This is a painful anniversary, especially for the surviving families. But from this tragedy, our community has found ways to turn their pain into artistic expression and activism. Every day since, and every day moving forward, I commit my work to their memory.

Beam Furr, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: You wouldn’t know that Florida is the Sunshine State by the paltry use of solar energy currently being generated. Florida is one of the few states that doesn’t even have a renewable energy goal. That said, I am heartened that FPL had four major solar power plants finally go online this week with over a million solar panels generating 298 megawatts of power. As a state that will be profoundly affected by climate change and sea level rise, it is imperative we set a good example. FPL’s goal of 30 million solar panels by 2030 should be embraced and expedited where possible.

Looking ahead:It was disappointing to wake up and read the news that a permit has been granted to build an exploratory oil well in our Everglades. On one hand the state gives lip service to cleaning up the River of Grass, while on the other it continues to allow for this kind of degradation. Broward County has been very clear that it is important to protect our natural resources. We have banned fracking and we will fight to protect this conservation area. This week, the Broward County Commission will be discussing action steps and where we go from here.

Chip LaMarca, member, Florida House of Representatives

Last week: This week, I co-sponsored HB99: Shark Fins and Ray Parts, in the Florida House. This legislation will prohibit certain possessions of Shark fins and Ray parts to be purchased or distributed in Florida. Sharks are highly susceptible to extinction, because of their slow growth and reproductive rates, which makes it difficult for many sharks to replenish their populations. Today 60- to 70 percent of shark populations have diminished due to shark finning. I will work to ensure that the Legislature continues to take the appropriate measures to make sure our environment and water quality are as healthy as possible.

Looking ahead:Next week I will file my next bill in the Florida House, which is an Anti-Hazing Bill. The bill will make changes to the existing Florida statute, which does not cover all hazing activities. It expands the definition of hazng to include the leadership of the organization who “solicits others to commit, or is actively involved in the planning for” acts of hazing that harm another. The current statute does not provide any incentive during a hazing event to call ‘911’ to try and save the life student. Working with Florida State University, this proposed bill would remedy the gap in the previous statute.

Maria Sachs, former member, Florida Senate

Last week: Whether you're a Patriot fan or rooting for the L.A. Rams, the big event of the week was the Super Bowl. It is by far, the most " American " of all sporting events. The best commercials selling products to a mass audience, the prettiest cheerleaders and, of course, the champion teams locking heads on the field. Underneath the glam lies a dirty secret: sex trafficking at its worst. Hidden away in hotels is the Number One cash business in the world, the buying and selling of human beings. The influx of thousands of people in one city for this huge sporting event always brings with it, the marketing of modern day slavery. Through the efforts of many, South Florida will be ready for Super Bowl 2020. We will show the world, that human trafficking has no place to hide in Florida, that the Sunshine State will not harbor nor tolerate modern day slavery.

Tim Ryan, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: Nearly half of Florida’s residents struggle to afford necessities and couldn’t cover expenses if disaster struck, according to the new ALICE study by the United Way of Florida. Increased housing and transportation costs combined with low paying jobs and stagnant wages means that prosperity is elusive for many in our state. That’s especially true in Broward County, where we have the largest gap between wages and the cost of housing in the country. The report is a reminder that in a time of low unemployment and a rising stock market, many Floridians haven’t experienced the benefits of the economic recovery.

Looking ahead:Broward County war veterans can now have their memories preserved for posterity at the main library in Fort Lauderdale. In conjunction with the Veterans History Project in Washington, D.C., those who served in current or past conflicts can have their first-hand accounts recorded by a librarian in written, audio, or video format free of charge. Interviews, writings, and documents provided are sent to the Library of Congress and made accessible for research and public viewing. What is past is prologue. Those veterans who share their stories are doing another service for our country. To arrange an interview, call 954-357-7363.

John "Jack" P. Seiler, former mayor, Fort Lauderdale

Looking ahead:During his State of the Union (SOTU) address, the president called for investment in infrastructure improvements. However, to date, it has been hard to take the president seriously on this issue, as he has not said how he plans to pay for it or how much federal money he is willing to commit to meaningfully address the problem. Further, during his SOTU, the president called for unity to move America forward. Since our highways, bridges, airports, seaports, dams and other infrastructure have overwhelming bipartisan support, funding these improvements provides an obvious opportunity for the president to achieve a bipartisan agreement in Congress.